Funding for start-up companies with innovations past the concept stage but some way from commercial reward, commonly called ‘the valley of death’, is still sparse. Funding for pure research is readily available. Funding for expansion of an established commercial entity with a sound business plan and track record is relatively easy to find but the bit in the middle is where we all are losing valuable initiatives. Even the VC community is loath to invest, or if they do, they will stifle the creative spark in their quest for a quick return.